Through the Built Environment Strategy, Council would like to become more proactive with regard to the development of a sustainable future, based on "live, work and play" principles of SmartGrowth – the 50 year growth management strategy for Tauranga and the Western Bay of Plenty District.

Sustainable development is "development which meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs."

Achieving sustainable development involves a different way of thinking and working.  It requires:

- looking after people
- taking the long-term view
- taking account of the social, economic, environmental and cultural effects of our decisions
- encouraging participation and partnerships.

The Built Environment Strategy will also be incorporated into planning tools such as the District Plan, Code of Practice and structure plans.

Through the Built Environment Strategy, Council would like to guide and encourage public and private developers to follow a sustainable approach towards development, an approach that can be passed on to future generations.

This Strategy will primarily focus at a District level. More detailed strategies will be developed during 2008/2009 for the growth areas of Te Puke, Katikati, Omokoroa and Waihi Beach in Phase 2 of the Built Environment Strategy.